5 Melmark Programs You Need to Know #FiveFriday

 

Established in 1966, Melmark has spent the last fifty years becoming one of the most well-known and significant nonprofits in the Delaware County Area. They are a comprehensive multi-service agency, providing residential, educational and therapeutic services for children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities, brain injuries and other neurological and genetic diagnoses. With a combined staff of 905 people, they currently serve over 1,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Melmark has a wide variety of programs and services that help promote independence, increased self-awareness and confidence, along with their residents making lasting friendships. With Melmark currently celebrating its 50^th Anniversary and obtaining a new CEO, Rita M. Gardner, they are truly a member to watch. Here are five programs you need to know about.

 

1.    The Meadows

 

The Meadows is one of the most popular and well-known programs that Melmark offers. It is
a day program for younger and older adults that combines vocational activities and creative arts. Participants in the Meadows Program are members of the Country Guild and share in the overall profits from sale of their products. The program’s artists create wonderful pieces including knitted stuffed animals, mosaics, and decorative housewares. With all of these pieces available for purchase, you can have a one-of-a-kind work of art that helps support this amazing program.

 

2.    The Chris Maurer Vocational Program

 

 

 

The Vocational Program serves adults 21 years of age and older, and assists each individual in identifying a job opportunity that allows them to grow and enjoy their work. After assessing skills and interest, adults are provided with a variety of work and instructional experiences ranging from on campus training programs to independent paid employment. This program has provided some wonderful success stories like Patrick:

 

Through the program Patrick developed job skills that helped lead to his employment at AMC in February 2013. He started with a job coach, and when he was ready, that coach was faded out. Now Patrick works independently and has just celebrated three years with the company. “Working at AMC makes me happy,” said Patrick. “It’s an accomplishment.”

 

3.    Adult Workshops

 

 

Melmark’s Adult Services focuses on integrated programs for adults 21 and over who are diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Each of the programs match the persons’ abilities and desires, while emphasizing wellness, daily living and communication skills. Programs can include physical therapy, pet-assisted activities, campus employment, Special Olympics, and swimming. Also for those members that want to get “their country on”, Melmark has their own barn on the campus.  Residents are allowed to engage with farm animals and horseback riding, while learning vocational skills involved as a “farm-hand”.

 

4.    The Melmark School

 

 

 

The Melmark School is an approved private school licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education that serves children and adolescents ages 5 to 21. The educational program focuses on the needs of students with learning difficulties and challenging behaviors secondary to a broad range of intellectual disabilities. Melmark's innovative program is defined by its collaborative clinical service delivery model with individualized education plans. The school has created major success stories with students like Michael:

 

 

 

Michael was thirteen years old when he arrived at Melmark, and had severe difficulty behaving in a classroom setting. Melmark’s behavior analytic team paired Michael with two staff who worked to identify why he was reacting negatively to his environment and helped him learn to more clearly communicate his wants and needs. Michael is a wonderful example of the success of the Melmark School. His life is richer, as his family’s.

 

 

5.    Residential Programs

 

 

 

Melmark’s residential setting for children and young adults is a 7-day/365 days-a-year service that includes programming based in applied behavior analysis, educational services, 24-hour on-campus nursing services, healthcare and rehabilitative services, and parent training. About 50% of attendees at Melmark are members of the residential program. The goal of the residential program is for the resident, when appropriate, to return to the family’s home or a less restrictive environment as soon as possible. The program allows for residents to gain both communication and vocational skills, living with roommates and participating in household chores.

 

 

Located on a beautiful 80-acre campus, Melmark is definitely a place to visit. When you step on the campus, residents greet you with such cheer and enthusiasm that you feel like part of the family. Come participate with so many volunteer opportunities for yourself or your entire company. Also help celebrate Melmark’s success at their Spring Festival and 50^th Birthday Bash on Saturday, June 11^th. Come experience the “Melmark Difference” and  see how incredible they certainly are.

 

 

 

 

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

 

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

Sons of Ben Set To Disrupt Delco Philly Tech Week

 



Philly Tech Week 2016 (PTW2016) marks the sixth year of celebrating the intersection of art, media, entertainment and technology and its role in economic development.  Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, AT&T and HeadRoom will bring Philly Tech Week to the suburbs for the second time.  HeadRoom is producing the Signature Event – Startup StorySlam® – to take place in Media on Thursday, May 5th at 6 pm.  Corey Furlan, Co-Founder of Sons of Ben will be a featured speaker at the event.

Startup StorySlam® is a friendly competition where entrepreneurs share five minute stories of their business successes, challenges and entrepreneurial learnings based on the evening’s theme.  The theme for this event is ‘Disruption.’  “Disruptive technologies and disruptive businesses are frequently analyzed in the news.  We believe there are interesting people and stories in our community that can speak to the theme of being disrupted in a job, in a business or to actually causing a disruption.  We can’t wait to hear the stories.” says John Tooher of HeadRoom.  On May 5th, story tellers will be judged based on the content of their story, how they use the theme and overall presentation.  The story teller with the highest overall score will be awarded prizes including a one year membership to the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce; a one year residency membership to HeadRoom, and an AT&T gift certificate.

Corey Furlan will serve as a special feature story teller.  Corey is fresh off his appearance at the South by Southwest® (SXSW®) Conferences and Festivals in Austin, Texas.  SXSW® offers the unique convergence of original music, independent films, and emerging technologies.  Corey was invited by Major League Soccer to speak on the topic of "Understanding the MLS Supporters Culture".  As part of Delco Philly Tech Week, Corey will share his unique perspective of disrupting the trajectory of a community by creating a loyal, passionate, and community focused group of MLS fans known as Sons of Ben.

AT&T is sponsoring the Delaware County PTW2016 venues– Suburban Innovation.  Joseph Divis, Executive Director AT&T says, “AT&T is proud to support the celebration of innovation and business development throughout this region.  With today’s robust networks, cloud-based applications and innovative products from AT&T and the wireless industry, it is easier and more cost effective for entrepreneurs to pursue their passion and build a business from anywhere.  In this environment, we should expect entrepreneurs to leverage disrupted markets and to create new disruptions.”

To register as a story teller or for FREE admission to the event, you can visit:
http://www.delcochamber.org/events/PTW-HeadRoom-Startup-Story-Slam-55740/details


Written by:
Cindi Mallon-Sutera

5 Free Business Apps You Should Know About #FiveFriday

 

With Philly Tech Week just beginning its sixth annual week-long celebration of technology and innovation, it reminds us of the great strides made in these fields. With a consistently changing society, especially in technology and business, you need to continue to adapt and remain current with technology in order for your business to succeed. Applications are an easy and resourceful way to support you and your business. So check out these five recommended “apps” to help you in the business world. Also they won’t require you to pay a cent, and who doesn’t like FREE!

 

1.        Evernote

It’s surprising with the advances we made in technology and all the resources we have right at our fingertips, people still exchange business cards. But we still do, and it can be such a hassle to try and keep track of all the cards we exchange. Also it’s a very monotonous and time-consuming task to enter all the information from the cards to your contact list. This app helps speed the process and manages your contact list with one snap of a picture. This business card reader converts business card information by taking a picture of them and adding them to your contact list. It is an easy and painless way to keep your contact list up-to-date. Also this app will go the extra-mile from other “card reader” apps by using the business card information and add the person you met as a LinkedIn connection.

 

2.      Asana

 
If you’re tired of the countless e-mails back and forth to track who in your business has what assignment and if they have already completed certain projects; then this app is the lifeline you have been looking for. Founded in 2008 by Facebook Co-Founder Dustin Moskovitz, Asana is a shared task list and project management tool for your entire team. The app lets you see who on your team has what assignment, and what projects you have been assigned while you were out of the office. Besides just keeping up with tasks, you can attach files from Dropbox and attach images to projects. Also the app syncs in real time on your phone and on a web-based version as well. With this app you will never be left out of the loop no matter where you are.

 

3.      Blue Jeans

  
Anybody who is in the business field knows the struggle of conference calls. Whether it be trying to have everyone on the same line or having them all use the same platform, it can be a hassle. With so many platforms available for video conference calls, it can be a real challenge for everyone to use the same one. Maybe it’s because some won’t download correctly or they just prefer other types. Now with this app, you will no longer have to have everyone on the same platform for video conference calls. This service lets companies conduct video conference calls with everyone using different platforms like Google Hangouts, Microsoft Lync, and many more. And it gets even better. You do not even have to be at a computer to be a part of the call since the app can work right off your iPhone.

 

4.      FoxFi

 
 
How many times have you been traveling for work and need the internet but there are no wifi spots available? FoxFi has made the solution for dead-zones. The app works by turning your mobile device into a free wifi hotspot without a tether plan required. You might think that this sounds too good to be true, might damage the phone, or be at risk of revealing your information, but this highly secure app works without breaking into your phone’s software. Also the app can support multiple connections, and can work with any tablet as well.

 

5.      Square

 

Isn’t it just a pain when you need to collect a payment, but the person does not have cash and you can’t bring your credit card machine with you? Writing down the card information can be problematic. Square is an amazing tool. After downloading the app, the company will send you a free magstripe reader. It allows you to use your smartphone or tablet to accept all major credit cards and deposit into your bank account in one or two business days. With only a 2.75% per swipe fee, Square can really help advance your business and increase profits. The best part is with so much sensitive information being processed, Square makes protection and security their number one priority.

 

See how these apps can best help you and your company, and with no cost you can at least give it a try without losing anything. Be part of the technology movement and stay up-to-date with all business apps. With today being the start for Philly Tech Week in Delaware County, check out all of the upcoming events and see what sparks your interest and join the movement.

 

"Never before in history has innovation offered promise of so much to so many in so short a time." - Bill Gates

 

 

 

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

 

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

 

 

Top 5 Beers at 2SP Brewery #FiveFriday

 

 

 

Since opening their doors in August 2015, 2SP Brewing Company has quickly become one of the most popular brewing companies in Delaware County and the Philadelphia area. Already having over 200 accounts where their beer is sold, this is truly a company on the rise. Owner, Michael Stiglitz, always had a passion for beer and while formerly working for Iron Hill Brewing Company, his passion only grew stronger. Working for Iron Hill, Stiglitz was introduced to craft beers and some very important connections which would lead to the 2SP Brewery today. Stiglitz convinced both Bob Barrar (Head Brewer) and Andrew “Ruby” Rubenstein (Head Cellarman) to join him in creating their own brewing company. But it was Barrar’s one condition to join with Stiglitz that lead to such quick success and recognition. Barrar ,who was born and raised in Glenolden, would only join if he was able to brew one particular beer and pay homage to the county he loved. That brew is known today as “Delco Lager.” This decision would quickly put the brewery on the map, and make them stand out among the competition.

 

With over 30 different styles of beer and growing, you might be unsure exactly where to start. No matter which one you choose, you will see why 2SP is the place to be. If you would like a road map, Mike Stiglitz will tell you his top five beers:

1.      Antonym

 

This springtime and summer grisette is the perfect way to cool off with the heat quickly approaching. With hints of melon this craft offers a crisp and refreshing taste. It is easy to drink and perfect to try if you are new to sampling craft beers. Though Stiglitz believes this to be there number one beer they have brewed, its beginnings make it a bit ironic and interesting. He believed that this French, hoppy, farmhouse ale was not marketable and refused to brew it. It was Ruby who decided to brew it since there was an empty fermenter tank and Stiglitz was gone for the weekend. When Stiglitz returned he was irritated with Ruby’s decision, but was amazed with its taste and it is now his favorite beer at 2SP.

 

2.      Patina

 

This is 2SP’s very own version of the Belgian favorite. The clean yet complex saison is ripe with fruit without being overbearing. At first sip, there are notes of light spice and herbs, but it’s the yeast that gives it a characteristic of fruitiness and aroma. Being neither super dry or too sweet, it is the perfect blend of finesse and strength. Also if you’re celebrating or want to feel a little more sophisticated, than this is the perfect alternative to “boring, old” champagne.

 

 

3.      Baby Bob 

 

This highly developed, precious American style stout takes after its father, Bob’s Russian Imperial Stout. Served with helpings of roasty and chocolate malts, and American hops, this bold and dry stout is semisweet with a hint of coffee notes. Also with it only being 6%, this is a stout Stiglitz says you can drink without it being overbearing or making you feel full. This stout does not “fall far from the tree” and can live up to dad’s expectations.

 

4.      Bellcracker

This is an ideally balanced Double IPA, without inhibition or prohibition for flavor. The bold, pushing hops and therapeutic malts offers a tropical fruit and dry flavor. Though this Double IPA strives for balance, it has a perplexing desire for American hops. Out of the 30+ beers brewed, this is one of those crafts that stood out, and from day one Stiglitz fell in love. Let this punishing brew punch you in the mouth, and show you why its “top dog.”

 

 

5.      Cold Cock

 

This English IPA offers a balance of roasts and citrus with a stiff earthy and floral flavor. Key notes of orange surround this notably less bitter IPA style. Originally, Stiglitz did not like the English IPA style, but it was Barrar’s creation that opened his eyes to this new style. With Cold Cock being Barrar’s favorite beer at 2SP, this is a must try with the Head Brewer giving his stamp of approval.

 

 

Come enjoy the experience of a true “Delco” Brewery. This is the perfect place to be with knowledgeable staff in a friendly environment. Also for you “foodies”, come try some amazing bites with different food trucks available Thursday through Saturday. And while you’re at it, why not check out an amazing classic car show with “Delco Cruisers” happening the 2^nd Friday of every month from April to October.


Try these five recommended and others to see why it is so difficult for Mike Stiglitz to only pick five. Also take home a growler of your favorite. If a growler isn’t enough, then I have some great news for you. Starting the second week of May, 2SP will be canning their beer offering cases to the public. They will be starting with these four beers: Delco Lager, ASAP, Bellcracker, and Cold Cock. Join the craze and try real Delco beer, brewed with 100% “wudder”.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY 

 

 

 

 

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

Budget Update: Change of Balance



 

 

It has been almost 10 months since Governor Wolf vetoed the General Assembly’s proposed budget. Nearly 10 months without a budget, the longest in Pennsylvania’s history, meaning that essential services have gone without needed funding and are schools will possibly close soon as well. Governor Wolf believes the only way out of our current budget deficit is more spending and more taxes, but putting it politely the Governor is out of touch.

The Republican Majority Leaders in the legislature have worked to create a balanced budget with fewer taxes so that essential services get the funds they so desperately need, but we do not break the backs of hardworking taxpayers. The Governor has asked the General Assembly to pass bills that increase the state income tax, increase the state sales tax, and further expand the sales tax to cover additional items and services.

Governor Wolf wants to raise the personal income tax from 3.07 percent to 3.7 percent, burdening the middle class with a 16 percent tax increase. Rep. Adolph (R-Delaware), Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, summed up the Governor’s budget proposal with a simple sentence. “Wow, an incredible amount of taxes”. It is common sense that these broad based tax increases will hurt Pennsylvanians and their businesses across the board.

Now Governor Wolf has proposed a new budget for the 16-17 fiscal years while 15-16 budgets have not yet been completed. This new budget has the same exact failings as the first, higher taxes and increased spending. If this path continues Governor Wolf will not pass a budget until it meets his exact criteria, which will place financial strain on Pennsylvanians. While this battle continues in Harrisburg many on the sidelines are continually hurt because of the lack of state services available.

 

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

 

5 Slices to Grab in Delco #FiveFriday

 

 

“I want to be as famous as midnight… and as loved as pizza.”- Macy Gray (American R&B, jazz and soul singer, songwriter, musician, record producer, and actress)

Pizza is considered to be one of the most popular and beloved foods throughout the world. To be honest, who doesn’t enjoy grabbing a slice? Since the simpler times where you only had two choices: plain or pepperoni, pizza has adapted and become a staple in our culture. Many have attempted to leave there mark on the pizza culture with creative toppings or just becoming known as the local place to be. Now Delaware County has a wide variety of places to choose from for pizza, and it seems that everyone offers it as a menu item. So where do you go? More than likely you find a place you like and stick with it. You don’t want to take the chance and end up with a bad pie. But like Mel Brooks said, “Pizza is like sex. Even when it is bad it is good.” So let the Chamber steer you in the right direction to some must try slices in Delco, you won’t be disappointed!

 

 

 

1.     Bruschetta Pizza (Bertucci’s Italian Restaurant, Glen Mills & Springfield)

 

 

 

 

Now everyone can agree the best style is the brick oven pizza, and Bertucci’s is the place to be. Spending 30 years perfecting the art of brick oven cooking, the Bruschetta Pizza will not disappoint. From that first bite, a blend of spices and flavors overwhelm you reminding what happens when you combine two Italian classics… “It can only get better.” When you reach the crust, don’t think the experience is over, in fact it has just begun. Their signature crust baked with basil, pesto, and fresh mozzarella is a treat all in its own. Come visit and let their staff treat you like part of the family and see what brick oven cooking is all about.

Ingredients include: basil, pesto, mozzarella, marinated tomatoes, and balsamic glaze




2.     Breakfast Pizza (Frankie’s on Fairview, Woodlyn)

There’s nothing better than having some cold pizza, from the night before, for breakfast. Actually in the United States 4% of pizza eaten by children is for breakfast. But don’t you wish you could have something more? Well, Frankie’s has the solution. This flat bread breakfast pizza is one of a kind from the fluffy scrambled eggs to the crispy sizzling bacon. This could be the best form of brunch ever. With Frankie’s only being a year old, they are already being recognized for their fabulous menu with the Delaware County Daily Times voting them “2015 Best of Delco” for best breakfast, catering, family dining, wings, vegetarian, and crab cakes.

Ingredients include: scrambled eggs, bacon, peppers, onion, tomato, and mozzarella



3.     Margherita Pizza (Little Anthony’s, Media)

With its roots tied so deeply back to Italy, Little Anthony’s is a must stop, especially in Media. The owner, Michael, moved to Media in 1999 from Monte di Procida, a small town outside Naples, and brought the true style of Italian cooking right here to Delco. Little Anthony’s prides itself on using top quality ingredients. The Margherita pizza has such a fresh taste you can see why they are so famous. They truly follow the theme of a family-style restaurant claiming they will never be a chain, reminding you quality is better than quantity.

Ingredients include: basil leaves, mozzarella, and dried oregano

4.      Calexico Pizza (MOD Pizza, Glen Mills & Wayne)

When you have a slice of pizza, is your first thought to go for the hot sauce? If it is, then this is the slice that will blow you away. This pie can pack a punch without the heat being overbearing or taking away from flavor. It is the perfect blend for a “buffalo chicken” style pizza. With MOD opening its doors in Seattle in 2008, the company has gown with over 90 locations across the country. Also for you Villanova fans, MOD will be giving away FREE Pizza Saturday, April 16 to celebrate our national champs. Fall in love with this slice and discover your favorite, and be part of the “MOD”ness.

Ingredients include: mozzarella, gorgonzola, chicken, jalapenos, hot buffalo sauce, and MOD red sauce

 

5.     Grilled Vegetable Pizza (Tavola Restaurant, Springfield)

 

Now Tavola’s definitely takes on the theme of high-end pizza, and for you vegetarian pizza lovers this will be an instant favorite. The classic white brick style pizza could make even the most stubborn meat lover sing a new tune. With such a multitude of vegetable toppings, this pie could go head to head with any meat lover’s pizza. Come visit and see why OpenTable named Tavola their 2016 Diners’ Choice. Pizza has never been so classy.

Ingredients include: garlic, broccoli, asparagus tips, grilled eggplant, squash, and roasted red and green peppers

 

Go break away from your typical pizza place and explore these five locations and sample these slices along with the rest of their menu. You know what they say, variety is the spice of life, but I’m pretty sure they meant mozzarella is. And remember in the words of the great Bill Murray, “Every pizza is a personal pizza if you try hard enough and believe in yourself.”

 

 

 

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

http://www.bertuccis.com/